Unseen Queen Charlotte Sound

Head to the specified meeting point in Blenheim for your transfer to the Heritage Explorer in Picton. Exact meeting times and locations are provided in your voyage documents. Upon arrival, the Captain and Expedition Team eagerly await your arrival to extend a warm welcome and assist you in settling into your cabin. Take the chance to acquaint yourself with the vessel before joining your fellow travelers and the Expedition Team for the voyage along Queen Charlotte Sound this afternoon.

Over the next three days, immerse yourselves in the stunning landscapes of Queen Charlotte Sound. Discovered in 1642 by Abel Janszoon Tasman during a storm, this area was later named by Captain James Cook during his explorations in the late 18th century. Today, delve into Tory Channel, where remnants of the Perano Whaling Station harken back to the region's whaling past. You may also hike to the lookout on Arapawa Island for breathtaking views. Additionally, you'll visit Ship Cove to delve into its rich history, paying homage to Captain Cook's legacy at his memorial and perhaps trekking through native bush to Ship Cove Waterfall.

A true expedition day, today you look to explore sections of New Zealand’s famed Queen Charlotte Walkway, once a network of pioneer day bridle paths. One of the country’s most diverse coastal tracks, you'll make several stops to experience its peerless coastal views, native bush, historic bays, endless skyline ridges, and unsurpassed views of the stunning Marlborough Sounds. Set your own pace with opportunities for drop-offs and pick-ups at various bays. Enjoy shorter walks and lunch on board or collect a packed lunch and spend the day immersed in nature.

Conservation and exploration go hand in hand today as you explore the rarely-visited island sanctuaries of Motuara and Blumine Islands. Fascinating history abounds on Blumine Island where WWII military ruins await exploration, native species flourish and stunning views combine along the Oruawairua Track of this former Pilot and Signal Station Reserve, sheep farm, and now scenic reserve. Several rare bird species including the once widespread Orange-fronted Parakeet, now New Zealand’s rarest parakeet, were translocated to the island between 2011 and 2012 which is also home to South Island Saddleback, brought back from the brink of extinction last century from just 36 birds rescued in 1964. Descendants of these birds were translocated to Blumine Island in 2009. On Motuara Island journey along the scenic loop track flanked by native bush and accompanied by the soundtrack of flourishing birdlife to the island’s summit for spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding islands, Cook Strait, and the North Island (on a clear day). Predator-free since the early 1990s, the island is now a haven for Saddleback, South Island Robin, Yellow-crowned parakeet, and Maud Island frogs which have all been relocated here. Motuara also serves as a crèche for Rowi Kiwi.

Sailing into Picton this morning you enjoy a final breakfast and farewells before you are transferred to a central Blenheim drop-off point or the airport. In case of unexpected delays, please do not book any onward travel from Blenheim until after midday.